In a dominant performance, John Higgins secured his spot in the final of the 2024 British Open with a resounding 6-0 victory over Oliver Lines. Despite not being at his best in the early stages of the match, the ‘Wizard of Wishaw’ proved to be too much for Lines to handle at The Centaur.

“Higgins fell out of the world’s top 16 after 29 years in the elite bracket on Monday, but has bounced back in superb style and is one win away from a fifth British Open crown after proving much too good for Lines in Cheltenham,” commented a snooker analyst.

The first frame saw both players having chances to win in a closely contested battle that was eventually decided by a period of strategic safety play. Higgins emerged victorious, leaving Lines needing two snookers to salvage the frame, which resulted in the world No. 99 conceding after 33 minutes of play.

Moving on to the second frame, Higgins had a mixed start, making a break of 38 before allowing his opponent an opportunity to counter. However, the frame was ultimately decided by a series of safety shots, showcasing Higgins’ class as he extended his lead to 2-0.

Lines struggled to capitalize on any openings presented to him, allowing Higgins to further solidify his advantage with a score of 69-6 in the third frame. The fourth frame could have swung either way, but it was Higgins who kept his composure to take a 50-28 lead before a period of safety play slowed the pace of the game.

As the players returned from the break, Higgins needed only two frames to secure the win and wasted no time in asserting his dominance over Lines. A commanding break of 64 in the fifth frame extended Higgins’ lead to 5-0, putting him on the brink of victory.

Entering the sixth frame, Higgins continued to showcase his skill by potting a beautiful long-range red shot, further highlighting his control over the match. The Scot sealed his place in the final with a break of 67 in the final frame, cementing his status as the first player to advance to the 2024 British Open final.